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Committee narrows Medford high school site options; motion to remove two park sites passes 11-0
Summary
The Medford Public Schools Building Committee voted 11-0 (4 absent) to remove Medford Square and Columbus Park from the feasibility study site list; members discussed several other site options and the committee set a Sept. 15 meeting to review design proposals.
The Medford Public Schools Building Committee voted to narrow the list of potential sites for a new or renovated high school, removing Medford Square and Columbus Park from further consideration in the feasibility study. Mayor Longo Kern moved the motion; it was seconded by Dr. Beloussi and passed 11-0 with four members absent.
Why it matters: The motion narrows the district's feasibility study focus to remaining site options, including use of the existing high school parcel (in several phasing/renovation/new-build configurations), Placehead Park, Tufts Park and potential Article 97 swaps for adjacent land. The committee discussed constraints such as acreage, play-field replacement and traffic before the vote.
During the discussion the Left Field consultant, Matt, reviewed each option and noted size and program constraints. He said several park parcels (Columbus Park, Placehead Park, Tufts Park) are roughly 5 to 12 acres and "it will be extremely difficult to fit a building of the size we need on this site," referring to requirements to accommodate school spaces and athletic fields. The consultants also noted Medford Square likely moved off the table because a private development had advanced.
Votes at a glance: - Motion to remove Medford Square and Columbus Park as feasibility-study options: moved by Mayor Longo Kern; seconded by Dr. Beloussi. Roll call: 11 yes, 0 no, 4 absent. Outcome: approved. - Motion to adjourn: moved by Mayor Longo Kern; seconded by Libby Brown. Roll call: 11 yes, 0 no, 4 absent. Outcome: approved.
Next steps: Left Field will notify firms and the MSBA as needed about the narrowed site list; the committee will receive RFS responses after Aug. 27 and meet again on Sept. 15 to provide input to the three DSP members who will represent Medford at the MSBA selection meetings.
